Echoes of the 1940s drive the region’s current military focus
An American based in Darwin has compared the 1940s to today in a significant speech at a bombing commemoration.
Northern Territory
Don't miss out on the headlines from Northern Territory. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine had “echoes” of WWII and the Pacific conflict, Australian American Association president Bradly Torgan said during a USS Peary commemoration address in Darwin on Wednesday.
Reflecting on the devastating bombing raids on Darwin by Japanese fighters from February 19, 1942, Mr Torgan said the raids were not just an attack on northern Australia, but a “stark reminder of the fragile global balance of power”.
The raids, which killed 252 allied service personnel and civilians on day one and lasted intermittently for more than a year, cemented the Australian-United States wartime alliance, which highlighted the need for strong military and strategic partnerships in a world driven by global conflict.
“Eighty-three years later, echoes of that turbulent time resonate in modern geopolitical tensions,” Mr Torgan said.
“The 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine sent shockwaves across the world, demonstrating how aggressive expansionism remains a threat to sovereignty and international stability.
“Just as Australia feared an advancing imperial force in 1942, nations today across Europe and the Indo Pacific are wary of territorial ambitions and military posturing that threaten democratic freedoms.
“The response from western allies including economic sanctions and military aid to Ukraine mirrors the collective efforts once seen in the Pacific theatre to counter imperialist aggressions.
“Asia too remains a focal point of global tension, with the South China Sea, Taiwan and the Korean Peninsula standing as flash points of potential conflict.
“The strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific, much like in WWII, has placed northern Australia at the centre of regional security discussions.
“The formation of defence alliances such as AUKUS and The Quad underscores the continued need for strong military co-operation in the face of rising authoritarian influence.
“In a striking contrast to 1942, Japan has transformed from a wartime adversary to one of America’s and Australia’s closes allies, bound by mutual economic interests, shared democratic values and a commitment to regional stability.”
Japan’s Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Kasuiro Suzuki, spoke of the complexities of visiting Darwin in his official capacity.
“As ambassador to Japan, a visit to this sacred place raises many complex emotions, that is undeniable” he said.
”Yet this ceremony reminds us of the courage demonstrated by so many on that fateful day, and their willingness to confront danger, to defend the causes and ideals of their respective nations.
“The fact that we Japan, Australia and the United States meet here 83 years later speaks volumes about the effort of generations past and present to forge closer ties between our peoples, ties that have lasted the test of time and have only grown stronger.”
Ninety-two US service personnel died on the USS Peary, when it was sunk in Darwin Harbour on the first day of Japanese bombing on February 19, 1942.
Couple, newborn shaken after Alice Springs home break in
A young couple and their newborn have been left shaken after an alleged home break in saw two of their cars stolen.
Live stream: How to watch Saints v Nightcliff women’s qualifying final
The St Mary’s and Nightcliff women have taken each other down once this season – now they’re in for their most important battle so far. Find out how to watch the match LIVE.